Sunday, October 19, 2008

Hokies Offensive In Loss

The much-publicized woes of the Virginia Tech offense finally caught up with the Hokies Saturday night in Chestnut Hill, MA as the Boston College Eagles defeated Tech 28-23.

The Tech defense scored two touchdowns on interception returns including one on the the first play of the game from linebacker Brett Warren. The defense didn't allow any points in the second half, but Tech was unable to overcome a 28-17 half time deficit.

Tyrod Taylor completed just 12 of 27 passes for 90 yards and no touchdowns. A number of the incomplete throws can be attributed to the receivers who had several drops at inopportune moments. Taylor once again was able to make a number of plays with his feet, rushing 15 times for 110 yards. He was the leading rusher once again for the Hokies and Tech was unable to run the ball effectively otherwise.

The offense failed to score a touchdown all night and the Hokie special teams faltered allowing a Rich Gunnell punt return for touchdown.

Boston College quarterback Chris Crane threw three interceptions, but mistakes plagued the Hokies. Tech totaled 10 penalties for 76 yards to just 3 flags for 19 yards for BC.

With the loss Tech falls to 5-2 overall and 1-1 in ACC play. Next up for the Hokies is a another hostile road match up at Florida State.

I will be traveling to the game, so expect plenty of blog coverage from Tallahassee and points north and south as well.

ANALYSIS

The Hokie offense is clearly regressing. Wide receivers dropping passes, penalties bringing back big plays, settling for field goals instead of touchdowns. The ACC hasn't been known for good offense recently, but Virginia Tech appears to be sinking to the bottom of the conference to be sure. The seat gets perpetually hotter for offensive coordinator Bryan Stinespring and it's getting more difficult to defend him. With most major offensive rankings in the hundreds, things look pretty bleak on the offensive side of the ball. Defense and special teams can carry you only so far, points have to be found somewhere fast.